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It might seem like our kids have an easy life. However, school isn’t easy, particularly as your child gets older and they are given more challenging work. This work may even find its way home with them, meaning that you need to sit down and get them to do their homework. So, how can you make the battle of homework that little bit easier? Here are five ways you can make sure that homework is much easier for both you and your children. Why not try them out for yourself and see if you can have a hassle free time when it comes to homework?

1. Pick the right place

A big part of successful homework is whether or not your child can focus properly. Some children find it hard to keep concentration if they have lots of people, noise, and activity around them. Some may not like working in complete silence, as this is not like their classroom. Discuss with your child what would make them most comfortable, and try out a couple of different approaches. Chances are that you will soon find one that fits.

2. Always do it at the right time for them

We all know that kids love a good routine, which means that it makes a whole lot of sense to have their homework times set each week. The important thing is to know what will work best for your child. Some will react to homework better when they are straight home from school and their minds are already focused on work. Others will need a bit of a break before they tackle their homework. Once you know what it is right for them, stick with it!

3. Give them praise

Kids love getting praise. Despite knowing this, parents can be quite surprised by how much a little bit of praise can really help a child. This is particularly true if they find something tricky or challenging. When they do a good job, it is a good idea to give them plenty of praise. Not only will this show them that they are doing well, but will spur them on to try even harder.

4. Encourage independence

The natural feeling for parents is to try and help our children as much as we can. However, this may not be the best idea when it comes to homework. The idea of homework is that your child is learning outside of the school setting. A trip to the local library can sometimes help. Therefore, if you are going through every single aspect and giving the answer or explaining it to them, then how will they learn what they need to? Giving them a bit of independence will really help them to understand more about the work they need to complete and it will make it easier for them in the future.

5. Recognize signs that they need help

Hopefully our children understand their work, and that won’t need any extra support, however, sometimes they will. If you notice that your child is really struggling with their homework, and you cannot find a way to help them then it is time to speak to the teacher. Support could come in some advice or tips for you, some extra tutoring or perhaps just sitting with them in the classroom in order to make sure that they understand the work. No matter which option you go for, there is no shame in asking for help.

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James Goldsmith graduated from The University of Sussex in 1996 and completed his P.G.C.E teaching qualification in 1997. Since then, James has worked as both a teacher, examiner and in management across a broad spectrum of the State and Independent Education sectors. Currently, he works with Eleven Plus Tutors. He is committed to constantly upgrading his teaching skills and raising standards.